Grilled Chicken Breast with Vietnamese Sate Sauce -

Grilled chicken breast with Vietnamese sate sauce is a delectable dish that brings the vibrant flavors of Vietnam right to your kitchen. This recipe not only guarantees juicy, perfectly cooked chicken but also introduces a rich and spicy dipping sauce that elevates this meal to a whole new level. Ideal for both casual dinners and more formal occasions, it’s a versatile dish that everyone will love.

Why You Will Love This Recipe

This grilled chicken breast with Vietnamese sate sauce is not just about great flavor; it also incorporates healthy ingredients that are easy to find. The marination process ensures that the chicken is tender and flavorful, while the sate sauce adds a delightful kick. Whether served over a refreshing salad or on its own, this dish stands as a testament to the richness of Vietnamese cuisine. Plus, it’s easily customizable based on your heat preference with more or less chili oil.

Ingredients

Gathering quality ingredients is essential for a mouthwatering dish. Here’s what you’ll need:

For the Grilled Chicken

2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
2 tbsp vegetable oil
1 tbsp honey or sugar
1 tbsp soy sauce
1 tsp fish sauce
1 tsp black pepper

Sate Sauce (extra for dipping)

2 tbsp chili oil or 1 tbsp neutral oil
1 tsp chili flakes
1 stalk lemongrass, finely minced or 1 tbsp lemongrass paste
3 cloves garlic, minced
1 shallot, minced
1 tsp shrimp paste (optional but recommended)
1 tbsp honey or palm sugar
1 tbsp lime juice
1 tsp soy sauce

For the Salad

3 cups mesclun greens or mixed baby greens
1/4 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
1/4 cucumber, thinly sliced
2 tbsp fresh herbs (mint, cilantro, or Thai basil)
2 tbsp crushed peanuts (optional)

Dressing

1 tbsp fish sauce
1 tbsp lime juice
1 tsp sugar
1 tsp minced garlic
1 small chili, sliced (optional)

Instructions

Step 1: Marinate the Chicken – In a medium bowl, mix together soy sauce, honey, fish sauce, black pepper, and 1 tablespoon of vegetable oil. Add the boneless chicken breasts, coating them thoroughly with the marinade. Allow the chicken to marinate for at least 15-30 minutes; this step is crucial as it enhances flavor and tenderness.

Step 2: Grill the Chicken – Preheat your grill or frying pan to medium-high heat. Place the marinated chicken breasts on the grill and cook for about 5-7 minutes on each side. The chicken should develop a beautiful char, and the internal temperature should reach 165°F (74°C). Remove from heat and let it rest for 5 minutes before slicing.

Step 3: Make the Sate Sauce – On low to medium heat, pour the chili oil into a small saucepan. Add the minced lemongrass, garlic, and shallot. Sauté for about 2 minutes or until fragrant. If using shrimp paste, add it at this point along with honey, lime juice, and soy sauce. Simmer for 1-2 minutes until slightly thickened, and adjust any flavors to your liking.

Step 4: Assemble the Salad – In a large bowl, combine the mesclun greens, halved cherry tomatoes, sliced cucumber, and chosen fresh herbs. Toss gently to mix. In a separate bowl, whisk together the dressing ingredients (fish sauce, lime juice, sugar, minced garlic, and sliced chili). Drizzle this dressing over the salad and sprinkle with crushed peanuts if desired.

Step 5: Serve – Plate the sliced grilled chicken and drizzle the warm sate sauce over it. Serve alongside or on top of the fresh salad, allowing diners to add more sate sauce according to their taste.

FAQs

Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts?

Yes, chicken thighs can be used for a more succulent texture, and they may add extra flavor. Adjust cooking time as necessary to ensure they are fully cooked through.

How spicy is the sate sauce?

The heat level can be adjusted by varying the amount of chili oil and chili flakes you add. Feel free to taste and adjust according to your heat preference.

Can I prepare the sate sauce in advance?

Absolutely! The sate sauce can be made a day ahead and stored in the refrigerator. Reheat before serving for the best flavor and texture.

What dishes pair well with grilled chicken and sate sauce?

This dish pairs well with a range of accompaniments, including jasmine rice, steamed vegetables, or your favorite Asian noodles for a complete meal.

Can I make this recipe vegetarian?

For a vegetarian version, substitute the chicken with tofu or seitan, and adjust the marinades and sauces to exclude fish sauce.

Conclusion

This grilled chicken breast with Vietnamese sate sauce is not only a celebration of flavors but also a healthy option perfect for any meal. The marinade and the sate sauce work harmoniously to create a dish that’s complex yet simple enough for any home cook to replicate. Try this recipe today and enjoy a culinary journey to Vietnam right at your dining table!